Church of God News

Depiction of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

COGwriter

Alabama’s Ray Moore has now just effectively been permanently suspended for attempting to stand for state’s rights related to marriage:

COGwriter

Barring last minute action, the USA has decided to give away more control of the internet. The Economist reports:

BARRING any last-minute hiccups, something remarkable will happen on October 1st. Nearly two decades after it created the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, the body which oversees the internet’s address system, America’s government will let lapse a contract that gives it control over part of ICANN. …

Whoever controls the internet’s address book can also censor the internet: delete a domain name (such as economist.com) and the website can no longer be found. That is why, as the internet grew up, America decided not to hand control to the United Nations or another international body steered by governments. Instead, in 1998 it helped create ICANN …

American oversight came to seem odd as the internet grew into a vast global resource with much traffic no longer passing over American cables. Then came revelations that the National Security Agency had spied on internet users in America and elsewhere. The snooping was unrelated to the management of internet addresses. But America’s Department of Commerce, which oversees ICANN, was provoked to announce in March 2014 that it would relinquish its role …

Some—notably Ted Cruz, a Republican senator from Texas, and four state attorneys-general who have sued to block the handover—argue that the handover amounts to giving away the internet. He says that it would allow governments in autocratic countries such as China, Iran and Russia to have greater control over what is available online. 09/29/16. http://www.economist.com/blogs/economist-explains/2016/09/economist-explains-19

Texas Senator Ted Cruz posted the following about this:

Don’t Let Obama Give Away the Internet

The Obama administration is pushing through a radical proposal to take control of Internet domains and instead give it to an international organization, ICANN, that includes 162 foreign countries. If that proposal goes through, countries like Russia, China, and Iran could be able to censor speech on the Internet, including here in the U.S. by blocking access to sites they don’t like.

Right now, the Obama administration’s proposal to give away the Internet is an extraordinary threat to our freedom and it’s one that many Americans don’t know anything about. It is scheduled to go into effect September 30, 2016. Congress must act before it’s too late! https://www.cruz.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=2782

Notice also:

It’s Now or Never to Save the Internet

Absent specific instruction otherwise from Congress, the contractual relationship between the U.S. government and ICANN will cease this Saturday–Oct. 1, 2016.

Once the U.S. lets the contract with ICANN end, there is no going back. The future of the Internet is too important to risk on a half-baked proposal.

A free and secure internet is not just the concern of Americans, but of people across the world, especially those living under despotic regimes. Congress must think long and hard about allowing Obama to give away the internet—because right now, that’s what he’s on track to do. Congress has the power to stop this. Will it? http://www.conservativehq.com/article/24178-it%E2%80%99s-now-or-never-save-internet

Apparently not.

Notice some concerns from the following report:

It was the late Phyllis Schlafly who, earlier this year, characterized President Obama’s plan to give away U.S. oversight of the Internet’s domain name system as “like telling the fox to guard the chicken coop,” trusting the likes of Cuba, Venezuela and China to ensure the continued freedom of the Web.

The transfer of oversight to an obscure non-profit called the Internet Association for Assigned Names and Numbers, ICANN, set for Saturday, “could be the most dangerous use yet of Obama’s now-famous pen,” the conservative icon said at the time. …

A coalition of 77 national security, cybersecurity and industry leaders wrote a letter to Defense Secretary Ash Carter and Gen. Joseph Dunford, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, just days ago asking for intervention.

“As individuals with extensive, first-hand experience with protecting our national security, we write to urge you to intervene in opposition to an imminent action that would, in our judgment, cause profound and irreversible damage to the United States’ vital interests,” the letter said.

“Indeed, there is, to our knowledge, no compelling reason for exposing the national security to such a risk by transferring our remaining control of the Internet in this way at this time. In light of the looming deadline, we feel compelled to urge you to impress upon President Obama that the contract between NTIA and ICANN cannot be safely terminated at this point.”

The signers included former Assistant Secretary of Defense Frank Gaffney Jr., former Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence Lt. Gen. William “Jerry” Boykin (Ret.), former Senate Minority Whip Jon Kyl, former Director of the Defense Nuclear Agency Vice Adm. Robert Monroe (Ret.) and former Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Andrew McCarthy, among others.

They warned: “In the absence of U.S. government involvement in IANA, it seems possible that, over time, foreign powers – including potentially or actually hostile ones – will be able to influence the IANA process. Even coercing the delay in approving IP addresses could impact military capabilities. From a broader view, given the well-documented ambition of these actors to restrict freedom of expression and/or entrepreneurial activity on the Internet, such a transfer of authority to ICANN could have far-reaching and undesirable consequences for untold numbers of people worldwide.” …

Rep. Ted Yoho, R-Fla., has been especially critical of the transfer. …“Is this move going to strengthen America, or is this move going to weaken it? I think it’s very clear that if we do what President Obama wants to do, it’ll weaken America’s stance again,” said Yoho,

He warned of authoritarian leaders controlling what their people can access.

“I think you’re going to see a decrease in access to the Internet, a decrease of freedom over the Internet to an extent we have never experienced before,” he said.

Judith Bergman of the Gatestone Institute said the move could “spell the end of the current era of free speech on the Internet, as well as free enterprise.”

Authoritarian governments around the world already have bolstered Bergman’s case. China issued a statement saying, “It is necessary to ensure that United Nations plays a facilitating role in setting up international public policies pertaining to the Internet.”

The Russians weighed in, arguing, “We consider it necessary to consecutively increase the role of governments in the Internet governance, with strengthening the activity of the International Telecommunications Union [the UNs telecommunications arm] in this field … in the development of ethical aspects of Internet use.”

Last month, a coalition told leaders of both parties in Congress that it already has ordered the NTIA “not to let lapse the government contract.”

But the Obama administration is doing exactly that. 09/29/16. http://www.wnd.com/2016/09/hours-left-before-obamas-internet-giveaway-irreversible/#X4gvVO9jqjAURRq3.99

Now, this is something I have warned about before (see Obama Administration wants USA to lose internet control: A prelude).

There are more than military concerns.

Notice something that Jesus said:

4 … the night is coming when no one can work. (John 9:4, NKJV)

4… the night cometh, when no man can work (John 9:4 KJV)

In a October 23, 1980 co-worker letter, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote:

The Bible warns us the time is just ahead when NO MAN CAN WORK—in the Lord’s Work. We must sacrifice now as never before for this Work that we may FINISH the Work that Christ has called us to do. Pray as never before, for this Work.

We are getting closer to that time.

The Bible also talks about the fact that God will finish the work and allow it to be cut short:

28 For He will finish the work and cut it short in righteousness, Because the Lord will make a short work upon the earth. (Roman 9:28)

Notice some of what I wrote related to this years ago:

I strongly believe that God will more powerfully use the remnant of the Philadelphia era of the Church of God to proclaim the good news of the The Gospel of the Kingdom of God and that the “short work” of Romans 9:28 will still happen–(Thiel B. The Great Tribulation Cannot Begin in 2009. December 27, 2008)

In the next decade, the small Nazarene “secret sect” will rise up more and more in effectiveness to fulfill the prophecy Jesus gave, as recorded in Matthew 24:14. Ultimately, the world will hear the message of the good news of the coming Kingdom of God on earth, under the rule of Jesus Christ and His saints (which is the ultimate rising up of “the secret sect”). (Thiel B. 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect. Nazarene Books, 2009, pp. 254-255)

By this time {Daniel 11:28}, the short work Paul mentioned in Romans 9:28 probably will have begun or be almost finished, as will the gospel preaching of Matthew 24:14 that Jesus spoke of.  This is the rising up of the “secret sect” that various prophets have foretold and hence seems to be consistent with various end-time prophetic scriptures. (Thiel B. 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect. Nazarene Books, 2009, p. 291; also cited in a post on August 19, 2012 titled Who is the Secret Sect and What is its Rise?)

And notice something that was posted within weeks of the formation of Continuing Church of God.

Warning the world that the King of the North is fulfilling Bible prophecy when he does this is likely to be part of the “short work” of Romans 9:28 that God will accomplish through His most faithful. (Thiel B. The King of the North will arise. January 12, 2013).

The King of the North will be a European power. Exposing his identity, which I expect that we in the Continuing Church of God will do, will trigger persecutions prophesied in Daniel 11:29-35 (see also Persecutions by Church and State) and after more proclamation success (Daniel 11:33; Matthew 24:14) lead to the work being stopped.

One or more associated with the Continuing Church of God will be identifying that the European “prince” (Daniel 9:26-27) who is rising up to become a king, as not being able to truly bring peace, but instead will bring war and will be in league with the final Antichrist.

We will also be warning that the idea of a human-led utopia that the UN and others are pushing is false and that it is only through Jesus’ return and the gospel of the kingdom that such a utopian condition will happen (see also Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism?).

This will likely trigger major media coverage.

Scrutiny of real, as well as claimed, COG literature will likely happen towards the end and various aspects of real and incorrect COG doctrines will likely be ridiculed. Media coverage would then be expected to cover more of the COG message (cf. The Gospel of the Kingdom of God) and this may be associated with the “short work” of Romans 9:28.

We in the Continuing Church of God (CCOG) are preparing for the ‘short work’ by establishing multiple websites in multiple languages, while researching and making available information on church history, doctrine, and prophecy, while also proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom of God to the world as a witness.

Since the true Church of God is so small, it is highly likely that it getting significant media coverage will help fulfill Matthew 24:14. Some of the Philadelphia remnant will be explaining that it is Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God and not the rise of a militaristic leader that the world needs. According to Daniel 11:32 it is “the people who know their God [that] shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” Hundreds of millions, if not billions, will receive at least a partial witness. All of that will likely trigger the King of the North to take actions that lead to the end–this includes the persecutions, pre- (Daniel 7:25a, 11:29-36) and post-tribulation (Daniel 7:25b).

We Philadelphian Christians know there will be persecution and the work will be stopped and then the end will come, because of what Jesus taught:

9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake.  10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another.  11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many.  12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.  13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.  14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:9-14).

Notice the following which this ICANN move might impact:

11 “Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord God,
“That I will send a famine on the land,
Not a famine of bread,
Nor a thirst for water,
But of hearing the words of the Lord.
12 They shall wander from sea to sea,
And from north to east;
They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the Lord,
But shall not find it. (Amos 8:11-12)

The above could only happen in the 21st century if the internet was down and/or internet content related to the truth of God was no longer permitted (see also Preparing for the ‘Short Work’ and The Famine of the Word). Governments are taking steps which look to be able to bring this about–turning over the control of ICANN possibly may affect this.

ICANN is to be an international body starting tomorrow. This will tend to make its decisions out of the jurisdiction of American courts. This will allow it to be able to censor basically at will. Instead of first amendment protections, Americans will be subject to international whims and things like ‘community standards’–standards that already have been shown to be in conflict with scripture. If ICANN is pressured to pull some or all of our proclaiming Christ’s Gospel of the Kingdom of God message off the internet, this will cause a famine of the word, and perhaps the one prophesied in Amos 8.

In a November 22, 1982 co-worker letter, Herbert Armstrong wrote:

… brethren and co-workers, the prophesied Great Tribulation (nuclear World War III) will start soon after the European unification. That means OUR WORK OF SPREADING THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD WILL BE FINISHED! We have not now much more time. Soon shall come a FAMINE of hearing the Word of the Lord (Amos 8:11). God says, work while it is day, for the night is coming when no man can work – in the Work of God! Nothing else is important in our lives, now, but this all-important Work of God. (http://cog-ff.com/html/pcomments_07_04_08.html, viewed 10/03/13)

The Bible clearly tells of a time that will come when the word of God will not be found. And that would seem to be because it will be taken off the internet. In the 21st century, the internet is accessed by people in every country, and thus some type of internet restriction/suspension/site removal is coming.

But more than that will happen.

Consider that Bible prophecy also teaches the following:

15 He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed. 16 He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, 17 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

18 Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666. (Revelation 13:15-18, NKJV)

23 ‘And in the latter end of their kingdom, about the perfecting of the transgressors, stand up doth a king, fierce of face, and understanding hidden things; (Daniel 8:23, Young’s Literal Translation)

The prophecies in Revelation 13 and Daniel 8 are referring to a European power. Having internet monitoring helps uncover “hidden things.” It was not until the 21st century that there was the ability to do this as well as monitor buying and selling enough to fulfill the prophecies related to 666. But it should be clear to all that these abilities do now exist.

Furthermore, consider also that this past Spring, the USA pushed a deal with Europe to allow for prompt removal of content deemed ‘hate speech’ (see USA and EU announce new internet censorship plans). Internet censorship is being encouraged by the USA.

With turning over ICAAN to other nations, Europe can more easily eliminate internet content when it wants to.

More censorship will come. The ‘famine of the word’ and 666 are coming. The giving up of control over ICANN by the USA seems to be a step in that direction.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Preparing for the ‘Short Work’ and The Famine of the Word What is the ‘short work’ of Romans 9:28? Who is preparing for it? Here is a link to a related video sermon titled: The Short Work.
Persecutions by Church and State This article documents some that have occurred against those associated with the COGs and some prophesied to occur. Will those with the cross be the persecutors or the persecuted–this article has the shocking answer. There is also a YouTube video sermon you can watch: The Coming Persecution of the Church. Here is information in the Spanish language: Persecuciones de la Iglesia y el Estado.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Will the Anglo-Saxon Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory. There is also a video on the subject: Might Petra be the Place of Safety?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
The Mark of Antichrist What is the mark of Antichrist? What have various ones claimed? Here is a link to a related sermon What is the ‘Mark of Antichrist’?
Mark of the Beast What is the mark of the Beast? Who is the Beast? What have various ones claimed the mark is? What is the ‘Mark of the Beast’?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
European Technology and the Beast of Revelation Will the coming European Beast power would use and develop technology that will result in the taking over of the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies? Is this possible? What does the Bible teach? Here is a related YouTube video: Military Technology and the Beast of Revelation.
Must the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations? Some claim that these passages refer to a gathering of 10 currently existing nations together, while one group teaches that this is referring to 11 nations getting together. Is that what Revelation 17:12-13 refers to? The ramifications of misunderstanding this are enormous. A related sermon is titled Ten Kings of Revelation and the Great Tribulation.
Preparing for the ‘Short Work’ and The Famine of the Word What is the ‘short work’ of Romans 9:28? Who is preparing for it? Here is a link to a related video sermon titled: The Short Work.
The Snowden Leaks are Leading to the Destruction of the USA Can what happened with the leaks of what the NSA has done help the USA to be taken over? What does the Bible teach that seems to be related to this? Here is a related YouTube video titled Are the Snowden NSA leaks leading to the destruction of the USA?
The Final Phase of the Work What is the final phase of the work? Who will lead it? Do you have the courage to support it? Here is a related YouTube video titled The Final Phase of the Work.
Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 Who is 666? This article explains how the COG views this, and compares this to Ellen White.
United Nations: Humankind’s Last Hope or New World Order? Is the UN the last hope for humanity? Or might its goals end up with sinister results? Two related videos include UN’s ‘New Universal Agenda’ is a False Gospel! and United Nations and Vatican Are Planning the New World Order.
Some Doctrines of Antichrist Are there any doctrines taught outside the Churches of God which can be considered as doctrines of antichrist? This article suggests at least three. It also provides information on 666 and the identity of “the false prophet”. Plus it shows that several Catholic writers seem to warn about an ecumenical antipope that will support heresy.
What Does the Bible teach about the Antichrist? This video quotes all scriptures that mention the terms Antichrist or antichrists. It also gives examples of the type of deceptions, signs, and results of the time of the final Antichrist. It mentions certain Catholic prophecies and provides some disturbing quotes about Pope Francis. It discusses Antichrist’s role in Armageddon. It quotes Jesus about the coming deception and what Christians should do. This is a video.
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 200 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Hillary Clinton and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also discusses Republicans. The physical book can be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States, 2nd edition: Is Hillary Clinton Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Hopi, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Donald Trump? $11.99.
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition This electronic version of the 200 page print edition is available for only US$3.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

COGwriter

Sunset Sunday, October 2nd, 2016, will begin the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar known biblically as Ethanim (1 Kings 8:2) but more commonly known as Tishri.

Tom Roberts, who at the time he produced this was part of a group called CG7 Meridian (not to be confused with the vastly larger CG7-Denver), wrote the following:

In 1858, Gilbert Cramer from the Marion Party, founded eight churches which would ultimately become the Church of God Seventh Day. Out of this ministry arose the Remnant of Israel under the leadership of G. G. Rupert who definitely advocated the meaning of Holy Day observance. (“Remnant of Israel”, G. G. Rupert, Vol 10, No. 11, September, 1929) Some today are suggesting that G. G. Rupert was a delegate at the 1888 Seventh Day Adventist Conference which began the change of direction of the SDA Church from its founders with the departure of Wagner and Jones.This conference was very significant because its theme was “Righteousness by Faith” and was needed to free Sabbatarians from legalism.Unfortunately, as the years passed, many of the founding voices of Adventism who once gave support to the Seventh Month Movement were no longer influential.Ellen White even stated that the Adventist camp meetings should replicate the Feast of Tabernacles…

As the years progressed, Adventist scholars such N. L. Andreason, Raymond Cottrell, Ken Richards, Desmond Ford, and many others began to question the classical Adventist positions taught about the history of their beginnings and the direction the church was taking. There were those who wanted to go back to the non-trinitarian, Holy Day, Kingdom of God on earth positions of the church. Others such as Desmond Ford, wanted the church to move in an evangelical direction while some at La Sierra University have tried to place the church on a more progressive path. Once again, the church is beginning to denounce all feast day keepers. Angel Rodriguez, PhD, and others have denounced the entire feast day movement. In spite of this, the ethos of feast day movements are still are behind the thinking of much of Seventh Day Adventist theology. One such example is Leslie Hardinge’s In the Shadow of His Sacrifice. He does an absolutely brilliant job of teaching Christianity the meaning of the Holy Days and the lessons that should impact their thinking about the Messiah.

Today there is a growing but small number of small groups of Adventist Holy Day Keepers who are attempting to resurrect the Seventh Month Movement in the Adventist Church. Dr. John Vandenberg is leading the charge along with a few other scholars and pastors by showing the Seventh Month Movement should never have been buried in Adventist history but instead modified to exclude its theological errors. It should have retained the spirit of Holy Day keeping in the worship and the life of the church.

Let us all pray and support this movement and fellowship with them as offer our love and service.

Gilbert Cranmer helped form a group that was called Church of God, Adventist. Eventually, various changes occurred to that group and it became, in the 20th century, the Church of God, Seventh-day (CG7).

The reasons for the term “Seventh Month Movement” include the fact that the seventh month in the Hebrew calendar contains what are commonly referred to as the ‘Fall Holy Days.’ The first day of the seventh month (Tishri) is the Feast of Trumpets, and then all the rest of the Fall Holy Days occur in the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. Hence “Seventh Month Movement” connotes observance (to some degree) of the biblical Fall Holy Days.

Most Sabbath-keeping Church of God groups observe and endorse the biblical Fall Holy Days of the seventh month (the Church of God, Seventh-day Denver does not, but it now does allow its members to do so).

There are also some within the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) movement that endorse the holy days, but they are a minority.

Yet, the late SDA scholar Samuele Bacchiochi not only endorsed the biblical holy days late in his life, he also wrote books about them (which I purchased and read) explaining why he felt that they had biblical and historical support for their observances. He even cited some statements from Ellen White hinting that she supported their observance.

Every now and then, I hear from some associated with the SDA movement who recognize that doctrinal compromise has occurred within it and that they lean more towards Church of God doctrines in certain areas.

CG7 itself allows its members to observe the biblical holy days if they do not insist that others need to. Interestingly, A.N. Dugger, who was president of CG7 in the early part of the 20th century ended up keeping the holy days himself after he left that organization.

Those of us in the Continuing Church of God do observe the biblical holy days.

For more information on them, check out the free online booklet Should You Observe God’s Holy Days or Demonic Holidays?

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Did Early Christians Observe the Fall Holy Days? The ‘Fall’ Holy Days come every year in September and/or October on the Roman calendar. Some call them Jewish holidays, but they were kept by Jesus, the apostles, and their early faithful followers. Should you keep them? What does the Bible teach? What do records of church history teach? What does the Bible teach about the Feasts of Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles, and the Last Great Day? Here is a link to a related sermon: Should you keep the Fall Holy Days?
Should You Observe God’s Holy Days or Demonic Holidays? This is a free pdf booklet explaining what the Bible and history shows about God’s Holy Days and popular holidays.
The Book of Life and the Feast of Trumpets? Are they related? Is so how? If not, where not? What does the Feast of Trumpets, which the Jews call Rosh Hashanah, help teach? Related sermon videos include: The Last Trumpet and the Book of Life and The Trumpet Release. The article has links to hear shofar blasts.
Offertory for the Feast of Trumpets Should Christians give an offering on the Feast of Trumpets? What does the Bible teach? Should Christians do this? What are the offerings used for? Is giving an offering an act of faith? What is the open door that end time Philadelphian Christians should support? What is some of what the Continuing Church of God doing related to that? How can you give an offering from far away? Mailing, PayPal and other methods are available. Those interested in giving an offering can visit the CCOG ‘Donations’ page, URL http://www.ccog.org/donations/
Feast of Trumpets: Why Should You Keep It? What does the Bible say? What does this festival picture?
The Day of Atonement–Its Christian Significance The Jews call it Yom Kippur, Christians “The Day of Atonement.” Does it have any relevance for Christians today? What is the Jubilee? Is fasting healthy? Here is a link to a sermon: Day of Atonement: How Jesus fulfilled His part for the Atonement. Here is a link to a related article in the Spanish language: El Día de Expiación –Su significado cristiano.
The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians? What is the Last Great Day? What do these days teach? A related sermon video is Feast of Tabernacles from Israel.
Feast of Tabernacles’ Sites for 2016 This is information on the planned Feast of Tabernacles’ sites for the Continuing Church of God in 2016. The Feast in 2016 begins the evening of October 16th.
Holy Day Calendar This is a listing of the biblical holy days through 2024, with their Roman calendar dates. They are really hard to observe if you do not know when they occur 🙂 In the Spanish/Español/Castellano language: Calendario de los Días Santos. In Mandarin Chinese: 何日是神的圣日？ 这里是一份神的圣日日历从2013年至2024年。.
SDA/COG Differences: Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 The real Church of God is NOT part of the Seventh-day Adventists. This article explains two prophetic differences, the trinity, and differences in approaching doctrine, including Ellen White. It also answers the question, “Did Ellen White make clear prophetic errors?”
Church of God, (Seventh Day): History and Teachings Nearly all COG’s I am aware of trace part of their history through some affiliation with this group. Whaid Rose is the president of the largest CG7 group (Denver). Do you know much about them?
Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God.

COGwriter

Could the next ‘black moon’ be some type of signal for the end of the world? Some apparently think it might:

September 29, 2016

This Friday, something unusual will happen in the sky over Los Angeles. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to see it.Sept. 30 marks the emergence of the “black moon” — when a second new moon rises in one month. Like all new moons, you cannot see it with the naked eye, because the side of the moon that’s lit by the sun is facing away from Earth.

A black moon is not in any way different from a regular new moon, except for the fact that it occurs in the same month of the calendar as a previous one. The last new moon rose on Sept. 1. The black moon will rise about 5 p.m. this Friday, the last day of the month. …

Many news outlets have reported this as a “rare occurrence.” A handful have suggested it’s a harbinger of the apocalypse. Ian O’Neill, an astrophysicist and the senior producer for space at Discovery News and Seeker.com, says neither of those things are true. …

A black moon is the opposite of a “blue moon,” when there are two full moons in one month. The lunar cycle is 29-and-a-half days. Every month except February has 30 or 31 days. So if the new or full moon occurs on the first day of any of those months, there will be a second one before the month has ended. http://www.latimes.com/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-black-moon-20160928-snap-story.html

Some are trying to read more into this black moon than it deserves:

Warning of rare BLACK MOON: Astrological event to herald ‘End of Days’ and second coming

FRIDAY’S Black Moon could bring with it worldwide destruction and the second coming of Jesus Christ, Christians and conspiracy theorists have claimed.

On Friday September 30, a rare Black Moon will occur, which many are linking to the apocalypse. …

The first day of September brought with it a ‘ring of fire’ solar eclipse – where the moon falls in line with the Earth and the sun above Africa, making it appear as if the sun had darkened.

This, coupled with the Black Moon, has got many fearing the worst.One conspiracy theorist wrote on Facebook: “Those signs are letting us know that Jesus is soon coming. We are approaching the end of our world and the end of life on Earth for all human being. Every day, we have to come closer to our saviour Jesus Christ. For none can escape for what is coming for the Earth.”

Another wrote: “The Lord will make the moon turn red as blood … and turn black. Sounds familiar?”

When the rare double phenomenon is linked to the Bible, it can make for terrifying reading for Christians and conspiracy theorists.

According to website Signs Of The End Times, the Book of Matthew, chapter 24:29, reads: “Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken.”

In Luke 21:25-26, the Bible says: “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and looking after those things which are coming on the earth.”However, scientists say there is nothing to fear, and the Earth will carry on as normal during and after the Black Moon. http://www.express.co.uk/news/weird/714924/Black-Moon-END-OF-THE-WORLD-JESUS-apocalypse

While most scientists are not the best sources to generally consult on prophecy, they are correct that the next ‘black moon’ is NOT a sign of the end of the world.

The moon is ‘black’ about every 29-30 days. A ‘black moon’ is a normal occurrence and does not reach the level of ‘signs in the heavens’ that some foolishly are hinting it does.

Perhaps I should mention that one person who wrote “The Lord will make the moon turn red as blood … and turn black. Sounds familiar?” was very misleading. It is NOT the moon that is prophesied to turn black, but the sun.

31 The sun shall be turned into darkness,
And the moon into blood,
Before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. (Joel 2:31)

Various ones mislead by implying the Bible teaches something that it does not teach.

That being said, it is true that we are getting closer to the end of the world.

For an example, which has more prophetic connection than the ‘black moon’ hype, notice something that a Canadian sent me today:

EU ploughing MILLIONS of YOUR cash into military for ‘defence revolution’

BRUSSELS plans to pump millions of pounds of European taxpayers’ money into a defence research project that could help the EU beat the US and China to key military developments.

As Brussels pushes ahead on with its plans for closer integration on defence, a proposal by the European Commission could see £78million (€90m) put into defence research by 2019.

Jorge Domecq, chief executive of the European Defence Agency, said the project is just the start in a global arms race that critics fear would bolster a new EU army at the expense of the existing NATO alliance. …

He claimed the move was a “revolution” for the EU and was backed by the vast majority of European citizens who he said were in favour of the 28-member bloc “intervening more in security and defence policy”.The Brussels chief said: “For the first time in its history, the EU is paving the way…for a substantive defence research programme in the next multiannual financial framework.”This means using the EU budget for defence, something that was unthinkable as recently as three years ago.”He said the budget was an “essential prerequisite to develop the capabilities of the future and thus to provide for our citizen’s security”.  …In his state of the union address earlier this month, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker called for EU countries “to pool their defence capabilities in the form of a permanent structured co-operation”, and proposed a European Defence Fund by the end of the year. 09/28/16 http://www.express.co.uk/news/world/715450/EU-army-European-Defence-Agency-chief-Jorge-Domecq-revolution-underway

Although Jorge Domecq claims this was “unthinkable as recently as three years ago,” I have been warning since last decade that the Europeans were going to develop military technology. And that is happening. Europe has decided it needs to be able to rely on its military for its peoples’ ‘security’ (as far as the EU State of the Union goes, watch the video Chaotic ‘State of the European Union’).

European technology looks like it will be involved in the ‘end of the world,’ starting with the end of the USA.

Notice something I had published last decade:

Because the deal of Daniel 9:27 has not been made (at least not publicly), even if it were made today, the end (meaning the beginning of the great tribulation and the last 3 ½ years before the second coming) cannot happen prior to 2013.  (If you add 3 ½ years from this book’s publication date, you end up in the year 2013.)

Hence, this appears to be additional biblical evidence that the end will not come in 2012 as many have publicly indicated.  However, if the deal is made soon, the end may come shortly after the Mayan 2012 date.

And while many do not consider that the European Union is much of a military power that perception is likely to change in or after 2013.

Why 2013 or after?

In 2013, the Europeans are planning on having their own global positioning system (GPS), called Galileo, available for military applications [European Parliament Approves Military Use of Galileo Satellite.  DPA news agency.  Deutsche Welle – July 10, 2008.  http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,2144,3474226,00.html viewed 05/14/09].  This will allow the Europeans to track the world and attack others without relying on the U.S.A.’s GPS.  This will be the first time in the 21^st century that Europeans will be able to have that type of independent military capability.

Furthermore, according to a 2009 report from the U.S. government, the U.S. Air Force may have to start relying on the European Galileo system (at least to a degree) beginning in 2013, as the U.S. GPS capabilities are expected to deteriorate by then [Lytle JM.  US says GPS satellite coverage may fail soon. Maintenance delays mean EU’s Galileo may step in.  TechRadar UK – May 14, 2009.   http://www.techradar.com/news/portable-devices/satnav/us-says-gps-satellite-coverage-may-fail-soon-599431 viewed 05/17/09] (other problems are also appearing in the newer U.S. satellites [Pasztor A.  GPS Satellite Glitches Fuel Concern on Next Generation.  Wall Street Journal, June 17, 2009 http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124520702464422059.html viewed 06/17/09]). Because the Europeans will be able to control Galileo, they will also likely be capable of derailing certain sophisticated U.S. military applications.  This will give the Europeans a unique defensive (as well as offensive) capability that no others on the planet will have.

But there is more.  The Europeans now also have the world’s leading-edge physics project called the Large Hadron Collider (the world’s largest and highest-energy particle accelerator) [Atkins W. Last magnet lowered into Large Hadron Collider.  02 May 2009.  iTWire. http://www.itwire.com/content/view/24778/1066/1/1/ viewed 05/15/09]. It was built by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (also referred to as CERN), and is apt to provide the Europeans with unique military capabilities in several years.   No other nation or group of nations will have complete access to what will develop from the Large Hadron Collider.

The Bible is clear that the final “Beast power” (which will be primarily European) will have such unique military capabilities that the entire world will marvel (cf. Revelation 13:3–4). (Thiel B. 2012 And the Rise of the Secret Sect. Nazarene Books, 2009)

When I was considering prophecies about the end time destruction of the strongest military (Daniel 11:39; see also USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses) the USA, I wondered how that could come about. That is part of why I wrote the following last decade at this news page:

The truth is that Europa is getting ready to be able to pass the USA technologically …  Soon Europa will be ready militarily (though it will probably not emphasize that much publicly as I believe that a surprise attack is more their historical style).  And Europa is currently working on its own “GPS” called Galileo which will enable it to by-pass US systems and controls. (Thiel B. Europa Starting to Pass the USA Technologically. COGwriter, April 6, 2008)

The Large Hadron Collider set one or more speed records in 2009 (Europe’s Large Hadron Collider Sets Another Record, USA is Losing Lead in Physics).  It is likely to set other records and help scientists learn more about physics in 2010.  And this data may lead to the development of military technology of unbelievable power–but for the Europeans. (Thiel B. Antimatter, CERN’s Collider, and Military Applications. COGwriter, December 27, 2009)

The Bible itself indicates that even after it happens, the rise of this military power will cause the world to marvel:

3 And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast. 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?” (Revelation 13:3-4)

Although the Bible says that the final European King of the North Beast power will have a great army (Daniel 11:25), manpower alone did not seem to be enough for the defeat of the USA along with its Anglo-Saxon descended allies (UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand).

Thus, I concluded long ago that while deceit and other factors would be involved in the military overthrow of the USA, that some type of European technology would be utilized (whether the Europeans fully developed it themselves or not).

And now it should be clear to those who will pay attention, that the Europeans are working on this.  This latest announcement is above past projects that the Europeans have been involved in.

We will ultimately learn what type of weaponry that will be used. But irrespective of the precise military technology, the Bible teaches that a European power will takeover the USA,divide its lands, and destroy many in their prosperity (Daniel 11:39; Daniel 8:25).

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses Can you point to scriptures, like Daniel 11:39, that point to the USA in the 21st century? This article does.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no Final End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? Here is a version in the Spanish language: ¿Quién es el Rey del Occidente? ¿Por qué no hay un Rey del Occidente en la profecía del tiempo del fin?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? In the Spanish language check out ¿Quién es el Rey del Norte? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
European Technology and the Beast of Revelation Will the coming European Beast power would use and develop technology that will result in the taking over of the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies? Is this possible? What does the Bible teach? Here is a related YouTube video: Military Technology and the Beast of Revelation.
The Large Hadron Collider has Military Potential Some say this European project is only peaceful. So why is it working on capturing antimatter? Here is a link to a related video: Could the Large Hadron Collider lead to destruction?
Must the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations? Some claim that these passages refer to a gathering of 10 currently existing nations together, while one group teaches that this is referring to 11 nations getting together. Is that what Revelation 17:12-13 refers to? The ramifications of misunderstanding this are enormous. A related sermon is titled Ten Kings of Revelation and the Great Tribulation.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Will the Anglo-Saxon Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
Stephen Hawking and ‘Alien Destruction’ CBS reported that theoretical physicist and atheist was concerned about three ways humanity could be destroyed. One of them was actually by being conquered by aliens. Does the Bible give credence to anything that could be considered as ‘alien’? Will ‘alien beings’ be a factor in Armageddon? Will humans fight against Jesus when He returns? Will the result of the type of ‘alien interventions’ the Bible discusses turn out in disaster or peace? This is a video.
Stephen Hawking is wrong about the ‘end of the world’ Atheist and theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking stated that humans will not last another 1000 years on planet Earth. His ‘solutions’ included finding another planet or looking for alternative planes of existence. Dr. Hawking is considered the smartest man on the Earth according to some, but you can know more of the truth if you. believe what the Bible itself teaches. Dr. Thiel quotes the words of Jesus and other portions of scripture to explain where Dr. Hawking is right about some of his ideas, but wrong about others. Does the Bible show that all Christians be protected at the end or only a few? This is a video.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing.
12 Apocalyptic Risks from Oxford University This is a video related to a 212 page report from Oxford University’s Future of Humanity Institute and the Global Challenges Foundation titled “12 Risks that threaten human civilisation.” The Russian Times reported about it with an article titled The article was titled, “12 likely causes of the Apocalypse, as seen by scientists.” Risks included asteroid impact, supervolacanic explosion, global pandemic, nuclear war,climate change, synthetic biology, nanotechnology, unknown consequences, ecological collapse, economic global system collapse, bad governance, and artificial intelligence flaws. Are the risks greater than what Oxford scientists believe? What does the Bible say about these risks? A written article of related interest is: Oxford University’s 12 likely causes of the Apocalypse.
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2023 or 20xx? There is also a video titled The 6000 Year Plan: Is the end of humanity’s reign almost up? Here is a link to the article in Spanish: ¿Tiene Dios un plan de 6,000 años?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2016, 2017, or 2018? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? Here is a version of the article in the Spanish language: ¿Puede comenzar la Gran Tribulación en 2016 o 2017? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? You can also see the English language sermon video: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives. A shorter video is: Can the Great Tribulation Start in 2016?
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory. There is also a video on the subject: Might Petra be the Place of Safety? Here is something related in the Spanish language: Hay un lugar de seguridad para los Filadelfinos. ¿Puede ser Petra?
Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something? King of the North.
Close Encounters of a ‘Spirit’ Kind discusses some experiences I believe were (demon) ‘spirit’ related. A video is also available titled: Poltergeists and Lying Wonders.
Why Prophecy? Why is so much of the Bible devoted to prophecy? Some question or downplay the role of prophecy. This article gives some of the biblical reasons what it is important and explains why the world cannot end (the Great Tribulation will not start) until after biblically-required events occur.
Why Be Concerned About False and Heretical Leaders? There have been many false leaders–here is some of why you should be concerned about them. Here is a related article in the Spanish language ¿Por qué estar preocupado acerca de falsos y heréticos líderes?
How To Determine If Someone is a True Prophet of God There are many false prophets. How can Christians determine who is a true prophet? There is also a sermon-length video titled How to determine if someone is a true prophet of God. Here is a related link in Spanish/español: ¿Cómo determinar si alguien es un verdadero profeta de Dios?

Russian Su-34 dropping bomb in Syria (Mil.ru)

COGwriter

Time reported the following:

The U.S. Has a Weak Hand In Syria-and Russia Knows It

September 29, 2016

The Obama Administration continues to insist that Assad must go. But it’s too late for that, even if the latest bombing in Aleppo stiffens U.S. spines. No one in Washington has yet made a credible case that a post-Assad Syria can hold together or that Assad and ISIS can both be defeated. If Donald Trump wins the election, he’ll probably cut a deal with Russia that recognizes Syria as a Russian problem. A Clinton White House would probably continue the Obama approach of criticism without much action, a recognition that the U.S. holds a losing hand.

Ultimately, U.S. plans may depend on how far Assad pushes. http://time.com/4512785/us-has-weak-hand-syria-russia-knows-it/

US actions and inactions in Syria have affected many places, and not just Syria itself, as the refugees from there have seriously affected Europe and likely also will the Americas.

As far as Syria itself goes, it is even claimed that World War III is taking place in Syria:

September 28, 2016

One of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad’s most important political allies told Russian media it is time to “admit a Third World War is taking place in Syria, one which is led by the U.S. and its allies – even if these allies are simultaneously victims as well.”

And while the startling comments seem extreme, pastor Carl Gallups, author of the new book “When The Lion Roars,” and a student of Middle Eastern geopolitics, says he finds it hard to disagree with that analysis.

The declaration World War III is already underway came from Tarek Ahmad of the Syrian Social Nationalist Party, one of the parties which forms part of the pro-Assad coalition in the shattered country. …

Vitaly Churkin, Russia’s ambassador to the United Nations, said peace is “almost an impossible task now” and alleged the United States is sending heavy weapons to Islamist rebel groups in Syria, including the al-Nusra Front, which was formerly aligned with al-Qaida.

The Syrian military also is claiming it has a record of the U.S. military communicating directly with ISIS during a bombing raid which killed dozens of Syrian Army personnel.

The Syrian government accused the United States of deliberately bombing Syrian soldiers and then halting the attack when ISIS forces advanced.

In Syria, Iran and its ally, Russia, have been closely backing the Assad regime with military and financial aid. There have also been reports of Chinese military involvement on Assad’s side.

Meanwhile, the American government and several Arab states continue to push for Assad’s overthrow.

Gallups said both as a student of history and an expert in prophecy, the recent headlines about the situation in Syria send “cold chills down my spine.” He argued the situation in Syria is critical to understanding eschatology. http://www.wnd.com/2016/09/3rd-world-war-is-taking-place-in-syria/#qOlBADAIguGXW1Lp.99

Syrian Social Nationalist Party representative Tarek Ahmad says that the war in Syria has reached a dead end, with the intervention of foreign powers turning the situation into a chaotic mess. Moreover, the politician says that Syria is just one front in a Third World War being waged by Washington and its allies. …

Commenting on the intensification of the conflict between Damascus, its allies, and the United States, following the US-led coalition’s attack on Syrian forces in Deir ez-Zor last week, Ahmad warned that it’s important to understand that the US position in Syria is tactical – not strategic.

“The US’s goal is not limited to Syria,” the politician emphasized. “The Syrian front is not the goal in and of itself. We need to look at this issue objectively, and to admit that a Third World War is taking place in Syria, one which is led by the US and its allies – even if these allies are simultaneously victims as well.” “America’s main objective,” according to Ahmad, “is to bring any world power that threatens them under control. Consequently, [Washington] is waging a war with these powers; and these powers include China and Russia.” 09/22/16 https://sputniknews.com/politics/20160922/1045602725/wwiii-in-syria.html

Carl Gallup and Joel Richardson are two ‘prophetic’ authors that World News Daily has featured a lot who misunderstand the situation in the Middle East (see also Can the Final Antichrist be Islamic?).  Conflict currently taking place in Syria is not leading to WWIII per se. Russia is not about to engage in a massive direct war with the USA nor is Ezekiel 38 about to be fulfilled as some Protestants and PCG’s Gerald Flurry seem to think (see also Ezekiel 38: For Russia & Iran in Our Day?).

While WWIII is NOT taking place currently in Syria, there are various prophecies in the Bible that include Syria.

7 thus says the Lord God: “It shall not stand, Nor shall it come to pass. 8 For the head of Syria is Damascus (Isaiah 7:7-8).

3 Thus says the Lord: “For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, Because they have threshed Gilead with implements of iron. (Amos 1:3)

1 The burden against Damascus. “Behold, Damascus will cease from being a city, And it will be a ruinous heap. (Isaiah 17:1)

23 Against Damascus. “Hamath and Arpad are shamed, For they have heard bad news. They are fainthearted; There is trouble on the sea; It cannot be quiet. 24 Damascus has grown feeble; She turns to flee, And fear has seized her. Anguish and sorrows have taken her like a woman in labor. 25 Why is the city of praise not deserted, the city of My joy? 26 Therefore her young men shall fall in her streets, And all the men of war shall be cut off in that day,” says the Lord of hosts. 27 “I will kindle a fire in the wall of Damascus, And it shall consume the palaces of Ben-Hadad.” (Jeremiah 49:23-27)

Damascus has been claimed to be the “oldest continuously inhabited city” in the world. And while some have questioned that claim, the reality is that Damascus has not been destroyed to the point of becoming the “ruinous heap” since God inspired Isaiah to record that would one day happen.

This devastation could come as the result of the current war with the Islamic State. It is possible that attacks against the Islamic State will encourage it to attack Damascus. Also if the Assad regime broadly uses chemical weapons and/or becomes engaged in a conflict with Israel and/or the West, that could also fulfill the above.

As I have been writing for years, the situation with Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad will change. Ultimately, Syria looks like it will support a coalition of peoples that the Bible says will be led by the King of the South that will be defeated by a European power (Daniel 11:40-43).  Currently, Syria is fairly isolated from much of the Arab world.

The situation for the Arab and Islamic world will have ups and downs. The Bible tells of a time of a significant peace deal that will affect the region, but that deal will not last (Daniel 8:25, 9:27, 11:23-24; see also The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27). The Bible teaches that more war will later come and will include a coalition of peoples such as the Sunni nations in the Arab world (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:2-8).

As far as WWIII goes, the Book of Daniel specifically shows that in the end times, the final King of the North, which is the European Beast power, will have a great army:

25 He shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the South with a great army. (Daniel 11:25)

The Book of Daniel also shows that this armed European Beast power will destroy the USA and a confederation of nations that are predominantly Muslim:

39 He will attack the mightiest fortresses with the help of a foreign god and will greatly honor those who acknowledge him. He will make them rulers over many people and will distribute the land at a price. 40“At the time of the end the king of the South will engage him in battle, and the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots and cavalry and a great fleet of ships. He will invade many countries and sweep through them like a flood. 41 He will also invade the Beautiful Land. Many countries will fall, but Edom, Moab and the leaders of Ammon will be delivered from his hand. 42 He will extend his power over many countries; Egypt will not escape. 43 He will gain control of the treasures of gold and silver and all the riches of Egypt, with the Libyans and Cushites in submission. (Daniel 11:39-43, NIV)

The land with the ‘mightiest fortresses is the USA (see also USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses). Even yesterday, I heard the following on the radio, which the Associated Press reported as well:

September 29, 2016

Obama reflected on his nearly eight years as president, saying that of all the privileges of the Oval Office, there’s none greater than serving as commander in chief of the finest military in the world.

“We have the strongest military…” he said. http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/09/29/obama-best-people-make-us-military-world-strongest.html

Yet, in WWIII, the strongest military will be defeated as Daniel 11:39 shows (see also USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses).

WWIII will come, but it is not directly taking place in Syria now, though Syria and many other parts of the world will have some involvement.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Ezekiel 38: For Russia & Iran in Our Day? Is Ezekiel 38 about to be fulfilled? A related video is available titled Ezekiel 38: For Russia, Ukraine, & Iran Now? Another could be Russia, Iran, Syria, & the Bible (Code).
USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses Can you point to scriptures, like Daniel 11:39, that point to the USA in the 21st century? This article does.
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
European Technology and the Beast of Revelation Will the coming European Beast power would use and develop technology that will result in the taking over of the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies? Is this possible? What does the Bible teach? Here is a related YouTube video: Military Technology and the Beast of Revelation.
The Large Hadron Collider has Military Potential Some say this European project is only peaceful. So why is it working on capturing antimatter? Here is a link to a related video: Could the Large Hadron Collider lead to destruction?
Must the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations? Some claim that these passages refer to a gathering of 10 currently existing nations together, while one group teaches that this is referring to 11 nations getting together. Is that what Revelation 17:12-13 refers to? The ramifications of misunderstanding this are enormous. A related sermon is titled Ten Kings of Revelation and the Great Tribulation.
The Eurasian Union, the Kings of the East, and Bible Prophecy Is there a Eurasian union that will be formed? Is one being formed right now? Are any leaders working on that in the 21st century? Does the Bible teach that there will be a Eurasian union? If some type of Eurasian union is formed, who might it benefit and who will it destroy? A related video would be Is The Eurasian Union Rising?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2016, 2017, or 2018? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? Here is a version of the article in the Spanish language: ¿Puede comenzar la Gran Tribulación en 2016 o 2017? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? You can also see the English language sermon videos: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives and Can the Great Tribulation begin before 2020? A shorter video is: Can the Great Tribulation Start in 2016?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2024 or 20xx? There is also a video titled The 6000 Year Plan: Is the end of humanity’s reign almost up? Here is a link to the article in Spanish: ¿Tiene Dios un plan de 6,000 años?
Russia and Ukraine: Their Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end? There is also a video sermon available: Russia in the Bible and in Prophecy and a video sermonette available: Ukraine in Prophecy?
Iran in Prophecy Is Iran in Bible prophecy? If so, what does the Bible teach? What names, other than Persia, may be used to describe Iran? There is also a YouTube video titled Iran In Prophecy.
Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria.
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?
World War III: Steps in Progress Are there surprising actions going on now that are leading to WWIII? Might a nuclear attack be expected? Does the Bible promise protection to all or only some Christians? How can you be part of those that will be protected? A related video would be Is World War III About to Begin? Can You Escape?
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? You can also see a YouTube video sermons Why Teach the Kingdom of God? and The Gospel of the Kingdom.
Jerusalem: Past, Present, and Future What does the Bible say about Jerusalem and its future? Is Jerusalem going to be divided and eliminated? Is Jesus returning to the area of Jerusalem? There is also a related YouTube video you can watch titled Jerusalem To be divided and eliminated.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing.
The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27 This prophecy could give up to 3 1/2 years advance notice of the coming Great Tribulation. Will most ignore or misunderstand its fulfillment? Here is a link to a related sermon video Daniel 9:27 and the Start of the Great Tribulation.
How Will Middle East Peace be Brought About? Can humans bring peace to the Middle East? Here is a link to a related video: Middle East Peace? When?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 200 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Hillary Clinton and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also discusses Republicans. The physical book can be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States, 2nd edition: Is Hillary Clinton Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Hopi, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Donald Trump? $11.99.
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition This electronic version of the 200 page print edition is available for only US$3.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

The pro-Vatican news agency Zenit reported the following a while back from priest Edward McNamara, who is a professor of liturgy and dean of theology at the Regina Apostolorum university about a garment called a dalmatic:

September 23, 2014

The proper vestment for a deacon at Mass is an alb (with an amice if required), cincture, stole worn in the diaconal manner, and dalmatic. The stole and dalmatic should be of the corresponding liturgical color.

This vestment is a knee-length, sleeved garment. It was originally developed in Dalmatia, modern-day Croatia, and was imported into Rome during the second century.

At first the dalmatic, which was originally longer, reaching the heels, and more ample than today, was not well received, being seen as somewhat effeminate. Later, however, it became popular among Roman senators and imperial officials as a substitute for the toga and was even used as the proper garb for the consecration of the emperor.

From this it became a habit proper to the pope and to bishops. Finally it was introduced as a vestment for the deacons of Rome by Pope Sylvester I in the fourth century and gradually became their proper vestment. For a time, especially during the ninth to 14th centuries, bishops and even priests would sometimes wear the dalmatic under the chasuble. http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/when-to-wear-a-dalmatic

So, what does this report tell us?

Consistent with other historical reports, this admits that the vestments of Catholic deacons were not an original Christian practice (see also Were the Early Duties of Elders/Pastors Mainly Sacramental? What was there Dress?).

Specifically, Catholic priest and scholar priest Edward McNamara is admitting:

1. The dalmatic was not from the Bible.
2. The dalmatic was not an original garment that deacons wore.
3. The source of the dalmatic came from worldly society.
4. People had concerns about the dalmatic because it was considered to be effeminate.
5. The dalmatic became associated with imperial politicians, including emperors.
6. Because of its ties to politics, it was adopted by pontiffs and bishops.
7. During the time of Emperor Constantine, it was adopted for use by deacons.

Despite this, the Church of Rome acts like a dalmatic is important and perhaps sacred.

But it is not.

Sylvester I was bishop of Rome from 314 to 335 A.D., which was during the reign of the sun-god worshiping Emperor Constantine. The Bishops of Rome did not take the title Pontifex Maximus, which Constantine held, until several decades after his death. But because of how the pagan priests dressed, it was during the reigns of Sylvester and Constantine that the Church of Rome adopted the vestments that they now wear.

Although Edward McNamara is referring to the dalmatic as part of the proper vestment for deacons during Catholic mass, this most certainly does not come from the Bible nor the practices of the early followers of Christ.

Notice what was written by a former Roman Catholic priest named Peter de Rosa:

Rome…successors will be not the servants but the masters of the world. They will dress in purple like Nero and call themselves Pontifex Maximus…

By the time Stephen III became pope, the church was thoroughly converted to the Roman Empire. From the Donation, it is plain that the Bishop of Rome looked like Constantine, lived like him, dressed liked him, inhabited his palaces, ruled over his lands, had exactly the same imperial outlook. The pope, too, wanted to lord it over church and state. (De Rosa, Peter. Vicars of Christ. Poolberg Press, Dublin, 2000, pp. 34,45).

Pontifex Maximus was a title, literally meaning bridge-builder (but figuratively meaning the link between God and man) that Roman Emperors, including Constantine, used for themselves. Emperor Constantine had been a follower of Mithras, and apparently influenced many of the Greco-Roman clergy to dress like the clergy of Mithraism. Why else would Bishop Sylvester do this as it was not from the Bible? This was an obvious change to the practices of the original Christian leaders (see also Do You Practice Mithraism?).

Much of the Greco-Roman clergy wears distinctive robes, but notice that Jesus even denounced religious leaders of His day for doing so:

38 In his teaching he said, ‘Beware of the scribes who like to walk about in long robes, to be greeted respectfully in the market squares, 39 to take the front seats in the synagogues and the places of honour at banquets; 40 these are the men who devour the property of widows and for show offer long prayers. The more severe will be the sentence they receive.’ (Mark 12:38, NJB)

6 ‘Beware of the scribes who like to walk about in long robes and love to be greeted respectfully in the market squares, to take the front seats in the synagogues and the places of honour at banquets, 47 who devour the property of widows, and for show offer long prayers. The more severe will be the sentence they receive.’ (Luke 20:46-47)

So, twice in Catholic translations of the Bible, dressing in distinctive robes is condemned. Also, it appears that the practice of priests trying to get money from widows related to ‘purgatory‘ would also seem to be being specifically condemned by Jesus.

Furthermore, the New Testament has a warning about appearing effeminate. The following is from a Catholic translation of the Bible:

9 Know you not that the unjust shall not possess the kingdom of God? Do not err: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, 10 Nor the effeminate, nor liers with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor railers, nor extortioners, shall possess the kingdom of God.

11 And such some of you were; but you are washed, but you are sanctified, but you are justified in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the Spirit of our God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Douay-Rheims)

Furthermore, the Bible (using another Catholic translation) warns:

15 Do not love the world or the things of the world.If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16 For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 Yet the world and its enticement are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever. (1 John 2:15-17, NABRE)

Yet, Bishop Sylvester was enticed and chose pretentious garments, not from the Father, but from the world. Every time one sees a Roman Catholic, Anglican/Episcopal, or Eastern Orthodox clergyman dressed in their typical ecclesiastical vestments, realize that they are outwardly displaying compromise that earlier leaders made with Emperor Constantine and his pagan religion in the fourth century.

None of the commonly used external vestments by the clergies of those religions came from the Bible nor the original apostles.

The Greco-Roman faiths are NOT the continuation of the original Christian religion.

Some items of possibly related interest may including the following:

Were the Early Duties of Elders/Pastors Mainly Sacramental? What was there Dress? Were the duties of the clergy primarily pastoral or sacramental? Did the clergy dress with special liturgical vestments? Can “bishops” be disqualified as ministers of Christ based on their head coverings?
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. December 25th was celebrated as his birthday. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity? A sermon video from Vatican City is titled Church of Rome, Mithras, and Isis?
Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE? Here is a link in the French language: Où est la vraie Église Chrétienne aujourd’hui?
Continuing History of the Church of God This pdf booklet is a historical overview of the true Church of God and some of its main opponents from Acts 2 to the 21st century. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes, and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.
Hope of Salvation: How the Continuing Church of God differ from most Protestants How the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background. As far as some changes affecting Protestantism, watch the video Charismatic Kenneth Copeland and Anglican Tony Palmer: Protestants Beware!
What Do Roman Catholic Scholars Actually Teach About Early Church History? Although most believe that the Roman Catholic Church history teaches an unbroken line of succession of bishops beginning with Peter, with stories about most of them, Roman Catholic scholars know the truth of this matter. Is telling the truth about the early church citing Catholic accepted sources anti-Catholic? This eye-opening article is a must-read for any who really wants to know what Roman Catholic history actually admits about the early church.
Some Similarities and Differences Between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Continuing Church of God Both groups claim to be the original church, but both groups have differing ways to claim it. Both groups have some amazing similarities and some major differences. Do you know what they are?
Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes? Should Christians be Nazarenes today? What were the practices of the Nazarenes.
Location of the Early Church: Another Look at Ephesus, Smyrna, and Rome What actually happened to the primitive Church? And did the Bible tell about this in advance?
Apostolic Succession What really happened? Did structure and beliefs change? Are many of the widely-held current understandings of this even possible? Did you know that Catholic scholars really do not believe that several of the claimed “apostolic sees” of the Orthodox have apostolic succession–despite the fact that the current pontiff himself seems to wish to ignore this view? Is there actually a true church that has ties to any of the apostles that is not part of the Catholic or Orthodox churches? Read this article if you truly are interested in the truth on this matter!
Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Continuing Church of God? Do you know that both groups shared a lot of the earliest teachings? Do you know which church changed? Do you know which group is most faithful to the teachings of the apostolic church? Which group best represents true Christianity? This documented article answers those questions.
Early Church History: Who Were the Two Major Groups Professed Christ in the Second and Third Centuries? Did you know that many in the second and third centuries felt that there were two major, and separate, professing Christian groups in the second century, but that those in the majority churches tend to now blend the groups together and claim “saints” from both? “Saints” that condemn some of their current beliefs. Who are the two groups?

Donald Trump and Janet Yellen

COGwriter

Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen spoke today and some have concerns about her:

September 28, 2016

U.S. banks are well capitalized, but they remain challenged by weak interest income, said Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen in prepared testimony on Wednesday.

Yellen is speaking as part of her semi-annual testimony before the House Financial Services Committee about financial regulation on Wednesday. Investors will be also watching Yellen’s comments closely for clues about any potential changes to the timing of the next rate hike. …

Yellen’s testimony follows the Federal Reserve’s decision to refrain from hiking the federal funds rate in September. Last week, the Fed decided to keep rates at 0.25 percent to 0.5 percent, rather than raising rates for what have been the first time this year. …

Meanwhile, the CME Group’s FedWatch tool pegs the implied odds of a hike in November at 8.3 percent and the odds of an increase the following month at 56.4 percent. http://www.cnbc.com/2016/09/28/feds-janet-yellen-banks-well-capitalized-despite-weak-interest-income.html

September 28, 2016

Discussing the present and future of the embattled hedge fund industry, Tiger Management’s Julian Robertson – one of the most prominent names in the field – said that hedge funds are facing “the most difficult time I’ve ever seen in the business” his investing career (observing that “there are a lot of people squeezing shorts”), and warned that the days of charging hefty fees may be over.

““That type of business hasn’t worked lately, and it’s a tough business,” Robertson, 84, said Tuesday on Bloomberg Surveillance in New York. “It’s tougher to be a hedge fund investor than ever before.” …

“High interest rates are going to encourage savings, and I think we desperately need savings. Take a widow: they don’t know what to do with the money. There is no way they can do anything with it unless they go into stocks. I think forced equity investing creates the bubble.”

When asked who do you blame for this mess, the legendary hedge fund investor had one name: Janet Yellen, who Robertson says “is unwilling to see the American public taking pain at all and because of that I think she is creating a serious bubble where serious pain is going to come.”

What happens then: “If we have that bubble burst, you’re not going to make any money in the stock market unless you’re short and unless you’re in some sort of hedge fund.”  http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-09-28/julian-robertson-janet-yellen-has-created-serious-bubble-and-pain-coming

Well, Janet Yellen has continued policies in order to keep interest rates artificially low, and she knows it. She has helped create a bubble that will burst. And ultimately, that burst will be worse than what billionaire Julian Robertson seems to believe.

At this stage if interest rates are allowed to rise this could impact the economy, and if they rise enough, make it impossible for the US government to pay interest on its debt. The timing of the possible increase in rates in December certainly seems political.

Various ones believe that if Donald Trump becomes the next President of the United States that Janet Yellen will not remain in her position:

If Trump wins, ‘Yellen would resign fairly quickly’: Economist

September 27, 2016

Judging by the candidate’s recent comments, a Donald Trump administration would not be hospitable to the current Federal Reserve makeup.

Consequently, should the Republican win, it would create pressure on the central bank’s command structure — so much so that Chair Janet Yellen would be inclined to resign, according to one analysis of the increasingly tense situation.

“If Donald Trump wins November’s presidential election, there is now a clear possibility that Fed Chair Janet Yellen would resign almost immediately, perhaps even before the mid-December (Federal Open Market Committee) meeting,” Paul Ashworth, chief U.S. economist at Capital Economics, a London-based global forecasting firm, said in a note. “It is hard to see how she could continue in her position until her current term expires in early 2018.”

The speculation comes amid a fresh round of criticism the outspoken New York businessman has lobbed at the Fed.

In a Sept. 12 CNBC appearance, Trump blasted the Fed for being political and said Yellen herself should be “ashamed.” http://www.cnbc.com/2016/09/27/if-donald-trump-wins-janet-yellen-would-resign-fairly-quickly-economist-paul-ashworth-says.html

Is this just another rant from Donald Trump or is there maybe something to this?

Notice something else that was in the news today:

“There’s A Real Problem Here” – Did Fed’s Plosser Just Admit Trump Is Right About Yellen?

September 28, 2016

Former Philly Fed President Charles Plosser got a lot off his chest this morning during a Bloomberg TV interview. Decrying that central bankers “wring their hands all the time,” Plosser noted that The Fed was very “concerned about credibility,” and was “pretty good at conjuring up reasons not to act.”

His mutinous discussion then concluded, sounding very Trumpian, by noting that The Fed “shouldn’t be afraid a recession might come,” exclaiming “there’s a real problem here” with The Fed. http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-09-28/theres-real-problem-here-did-feds-plosser-just-admit-trump-right-about-yellen

Janet Yellen had hinted about raising interest rates last December, but as of this instant, still has not done so. She knows that it would be safer in the long-run for the economy to do so (see http://www.nbcnews.com/business/economy/feds-yellen-testifies-economy-strong-enough-handle-rate-hike-n473756)–but some think she wants to wait until such an increase will not hurt Hillary Clinton’s chances of being elected the next President of the United States.

In the past several years, it has become clearer that the US Justice Department, as well as its Internal Revenue Service, has taken steps that certainly seem to be motivated by politics.

I do not believe that the Federal Reserve is immune from doing so as well. While, publicly the Federal Reserve has not voiced a presidential candidate preference, one would think that with Donald Trump’s occasional anti-Wall Street rhetoric (as well as anti-Fed rhetoric), that they may not want him elected (Hillary Clinton, too, has made anti-Wall Street rhetoric, but her history of financial ties to Wall Street have made many consider that she is much more likely to support Wall Street views than Donald Trump).

Several actions that the US Federal Reserve has taken during the time of the Obama Administration have been biblically inappropriate (Isaiah 1:22; Habakkuk 2:6) and will contribute to the end of the USA (Habakkuk 2:2-8).

Some items of possibly related interest include the following:

America’s Day of Reckoning 2017 Dollar Collapse? Economist James Dale Davidson says that a financial bloodbath will hit the USA and there is nothing that Washington can do to stop it. He claims that at least 57 nations have gotten together to dethrone the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency. He claims this can happen any day or in a few months. He mentions China, Russia, the AIIB, and gold. He claims his track record in predicting massive shifts in the past should assure people that he is right about this. He claims that there will be massive unemployment, near elimination of social security benefits, and more. Is James Dale Davidson possibly right on any of this? Dr. Thiel goes over many of his claims and explains what the Bible shows related to the coming collapse of the US dollar. This is a video.
Can the Bilderberg Group Affect 2017 and Beyond? The infamous Bilderberg Group met in Dresden, Germany from June 9-12 in 2016. This super-secretive group has been meeting since 1954 and has admitted to some subjects it would cover, but blocked out cell phone reception and forbid coverage of the discussions by the media. This is considered THE meeting to be part of for the elites who are working for a global-type of government. It is by invitation only. They are working towards their version of the New World Order as opposed to the good news of the Kingdom of God. At least one top leader apparently attended to try to get the Bilderberg Group’s support for a bid to become the next Secretary-General of the United Nations to replace Ban ki-Moon, whose term ends 31 December 2016. This is a video.
Collapse of the Euro and Dollar? War in 2020? Larry Edelson of Money and Markets described aspects of current economic difficulties and explained why he felt matters would get a lot worse. He said war, like World War III, could break out as early as 2020. What did he call the ‘granddaddy of all cycles”? Will matters go as he said? What does the Bible teach? Dr. Thiel provides biblical insights that secular sources often miss. This is a video.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Will the Anglo-Saxon Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
British are the Covenant People What do ‘British’ and ‘Britain’ mean in Hebrew? Are the descendants of the Anglo-Saxons people of the covenant? Does the British royal family connect to the throne of David? What does the Bible teach? What does history show us? Is there any DNA evidence related to British-Israelism? When did Christianity make it to the British Isles? Could Jeremiah have made it to the British Isles? What type of Christians made it to the British Isles? Did the last King of England believe in British Israelism?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2016, 2017, or 2018? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? Here is a version of the article in the Spanish language: ¿Puede comenzar la Gran Tribulación en 2016 o 2017? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? You can also see the English language sermon videos: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives and Can the Great Tribulation begin before 2020? A shorter video is: Can the Great Tribulation Start in 2016?
Protestant and Church of God views of the United States in Bible Prophecy Is the USA mentioned in Bible prophecy? Some Protestants say yes, while others say no. What does the Bible really teach? Learn the truth about this. There is also a video available: Is The United States Mentioned In Bible Prophecy?
Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something? Here is a version in the Spanish language Escrituras sobre Preparación física para los Cristianos.
The Plain Truth About Gold in Prophecy. How Should a Christian View Gold? What do economists and the Bible teach about gold? Gold and silver may drop in value. Inflation/deflation? What do Christians need to know about gold?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? You can also see a YouTube video sermon The Gospel of the Kingdom.
Donald Trump in Prophecy Prophecy, Donald Trump? Are there prophecies that Donald Trump may fulfill? Are there any prophecies that he has already helped fulfill? Could a Donald Trump presidency be apocalyptic? A related video is titled Could Donald Trump be Apocalyptic? Another video is 10 Reasons Not to Vote for Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 200 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Hillary Clinton and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also discusses Republicans. The physical book can be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States, 2nd edition: Is Hillary Clinton Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Hopi, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Donald Trump? $11.99.
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition This electronic version of the 200 page print edition is available for only US$3.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

Buk Missile Launcher (Владимир Саппинен)

COGwriter

There is a new report related to the crash of Malaysian Flight 17:

Investigators: Missile that Downed MH17 was Brought in from Russia

September 28, 2016

International investigators say a Malaysian airliner that crashed over eastern Ukraine in July 2014 was shot down by a missile that was transported into the country from Russia.

The findings released Wednesday confirm an earlier investigation by the Dutch Safety Board that concluded Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was brought down by a Russian-made Buk missile, a claim Russia has denied.

“It may be concluded MH17 was shot down by a 9M38 missile launched by a Buk, brought in from the territory of the Russian Federation,” said Wilbert Paulissen of the Dutch National Police.

Paulissen said evidence shows that pro-Russian rebels requested the deployment of the surface-to-air missile and reported its arrival in eastern Ukraine.

The previous investigation identified a 320-square kilometer area where it said the rocket launch must have taken place. Authorities did not explicitly say who had fired it, although all the land was controlled by separatists fighting Ukrainian forces.

Russian denial

In a move aimed at preempting the new findings, Russia on Wednesday said its radar data proved that no rocket was fired from within territory held by pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine.

On a conference call with reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russian radar identified all flying objects over the rebel territory, and there was no rocket.

“The data are clear-cut…there is no rocket,” he said. “If there was a rocket, it could only have been fired from elsewhere.” http://www.voanews.com/a/prosecutors-to-announce-launch-location-of-rocket-that-downed-mh17/3528240.html

September 28, 2016

NIEUWEGEIN, Netherlands (AP) — Dutch-led criminal investigators said Wednesday they have solid evidence that a Malaysian jet was shot down by a Buk missile moved into eastern Ukraine from Russia.

Wilbert Paulissen, head of the Central Crime Investigation department of the Dutch National Police, said communications intercepts showed that pro-Moscow rebels had called for deployment of the mobile surface-to-air weapon, and reported its arrival in rebel-controlled areas of eastern Ukraine.

From that and other evidence collected by the Joint Investigation Team, “it may be concluded MH17 was shot down by a 9M38 missile launched by a Buk, brought in from the territory of the Russian Federation, and that after launch was subsequently returned to the Russian Federation,” Paulissen told a news conference. http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/EU_NETHERLANDS_UKRAINE_PLANE?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2016-09-28-07-49-24

A report that came out last year mentioned that there is no evidence of direct Russian government involvement in this. The Dutch report seems to hint otherwise.

The basic US position seems to be that some that Russia has influence over may have shot down the flight. The basic Russian position seems to be that some related to the government in Kiev did it. Either way, almost 300 people died.

A Separation of the Medes?

This latest Dutch report will likely encourage some of those in western Ukraine to push further to the west. Earlier this week, the EU Parliament recommended that Ukrainians be granted visa-free travel (see Kiev welcomes decision of European Parliament’s committee to back visa-free regime with Ukraine), and while the EU is still looking into this, the Dutch report may be a factor in getting more in the EU to support this.

On the other hand, the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk want to be independent of Kiev. They did not agree with the overthrow of Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, did not like actions that the new government initially took to try to diminish the status of Russian-language speakers, and other actions later. Many in Donetsk and Luhansk want to be closer with Russia, and some wish to be part of Russia. This upsets many in Kiev who fear that Ukraine will be permanently split. But a split now does exist between the western and eastern portions of Ukraine. And it is being made more formally as the vote on the draft recognition for more autonomy in the east demonstrates.

Kiev is interested in the European Union and the EU has demonstrated a history and willingness to enlarge–and it wants Ukraine. The U.S.A. keeps encouraging all of this, but this will not end well for the U.S.A. (cf. Daniel 11:39; Isaiah 10:5-12).

Of course, not all in Ukraine want to be part of the European Union, some prefer to be in Russia’s developing Eurasian Union,. Those that become disillusioned/disappointed by the EU may ultimately back out of it.

Notice also the following from the Bible related to the ‘Medes’:

1 The burden against Babylon which Isaiah the son of Amoz saw…

17 “Behold, I will stir up the Medes against them,
Who will not regard silver;
And as for gold, they will not delight in it.
18 Also their bows will dash the young men to pieces,
And they will have no pity on the fruit of the womb;
Their eye will not spare children.
19 And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms,
The beauty of the Chaldeans’ pride,
Will be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah. (Isaiah 13:1, 17-19)

11 Make the arrows bright!
Gather the shields!
The Lord has raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes.
For His plan is against Babylon to destroy it,
Because it is the vengeance of the Lord,
The vengeance for His temple. (Jeremiah 51:11)

The Medes were once in a land called Media, which was near Persia (modern Iran).

The Medes and the Russians seem to have shared some history. But it is not clear to many. Notice the following:

The history of the Medes is dark and unknown. — Dmitri Ivanovich Ilovaisky …

In linguistic terms, the Russians are identified as East Slavs, that is, speakers of East Slavic, which eventually evolved into three distinct languages: Greater Russian, often simply called Russian; Ukrainian; and White Russian, or Belorussian (Belarus). (Riasanovsky NV. Russian Identities : A Historical Survey: A Historical Survey. Oxford University Press, 2005, p.7)

Certain ancient historians wrote about the Medes:

Herodotus wrote that the Medes were beginning to settle in the Ukraine even in his time. He main-tained that there were people who ‘dressed in Median fashion’ that live ‘north of Thrace . . . beyond the Danube.’ (Slytie P. The Three Edens. Xulon Press, 2011, p. 784)

Pliny mentions “the river Don, where the inhabitants are … said to be descended from the Medes” (book 6, sec.11) (UKRAINE). (Hunt K. The Biblical Prophets for Today. iUniverse, 2011, p. 7)

Isaiah mentions a chariot drawn by asses, xxi. 7 ; and Herodotus, that the Medes used wild asses to draw their war-chariots ; both apparently referring to the dun variety, which can be traced even now in the Ukraine, (Lizars WH. W.H. Lizars, 1866. Original from the New York Public Library, Digitized Dec 4, 2009, p. 110)

Herodotus lived in the fifth century B.C. and has been called “the father of history.” Pliny was a first century A.D. Roman nobleman and historian. Isaiah 21:2 is a reference to the Medes, hence there seems to be a tie into at least some part of Ukraine.

Some of the Russians themselves appear to have been from the Medes. Notice the following account:

But how are we to explain the name Russia? The old-fashioned view was to derive the word from the Rhoxolani. This, however, has long been abandoned. One thing is certain, namely, that these Rhoxolani were of Oriental descent, a Medic or Iranic tribe. They disappear from history, having, like so many other tribes — as, for instance, the Pechenegs and the Khozars—been swallowed up by the huge waves of immigration which overflowed the country (Morfill WR. Russia. Published 1890 by T.F. Unwin, London).

There are many disputes among academics as to who derived from whom, thus it is not completely clear, for example, that the Rhoxolani were Medes who went to Russia. The Bible has several end time prophecies concerning the Medes (Isaiah 13:17-19) and the kings of the Medes (Jeremiah 51:11, 28-29) that involve military action. Various ones in Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Russia, and elsewhere are part of the descendants of the Medes, as likely are some in Moldova.

However, if the Rhoxolani were Medes, then it would seem to be consistent with certain biblical prophecies.

Notice also the following:

Today the people who constituted the empire of the Medes may be found in western Russia, specifically the Ukraine and Volhynia. (White C. The Great German Nation: Origins and Destiny. AuthorHouse, 2007, p. 285)

While some/many in Ukraine descended from the Medes, so have some/many in Russia.

Biblically, because of prophecies involving the Medes, some of which are in Ukraine, and some in the “north and east” in Daniel 11:44, it would seem that Russia (a power of the “far north” Ezekiel 38:3,6) would be closer to at least parts of Ukraine (like some of the eastern portions of it) than many realize. (There is also a YouTube video available titled Ukraine in Prophecy?)

In the past few years, we seem to be seeing a separation of peoples in Ukraine. Perhaps a separation between those who are more with a background from the Medes with those that are less so.

The situation in Ukraine remains volatile and tense. Bible prophecy does show that a Russian-led Eurasian confederation will ultimately form (for details, see The Eurasian Union, the Kings of the East, and Bible Prophecy).

Also, however, a European power will form according to Bible prophecy. It is prophesied to dominate the world (Revelation 13:1-10) and world events, and the USA. But ultimately be in conflict with a power including Russia (Daniel 11:44).

We seem to be witnessing a separation in Ukraine that may align with all of this.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Russia and Ukraine: Their Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end? There is also a video sermon available: Russia in the Bible and in Prophecy and a video sermonette available: Ukraine in Prophecy?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?
Ezekiel 38: For Russia & Iran in Our Day? Is Ezekiel 38 about to be fulfilled? A related video is available titled Ezekiel 38: For Russia, Ukraine, & Iran Now? Another could be Russia, Iran, Syria, & the Bible (Code).
The Eurasian Union, the Kings of the East, and Bible Prophecy Is there a Eurasian union that will be formed? Is one being formed right now? Are any leaders working on that in the 21st century? Does the Bible teach that there will be a Eurasian union? If some type of Eurasian union is formed, who might it benefit and who will it destroy? A related video would be Is The Eurasian Union Rising?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon? A YouTube video of interest may be Is China THE Threat to the United States of America?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2016, 2017, or 2018? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? Here is a version of the article in the Spanish language: ¿Puede comenzar la Gran Tribulación en 2016 o 2017? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? You can also see the English language sermon videos: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives and Can the Great Tribulation begin before 2020? A shorter video is: Can the Great Tribulation Start in 2016?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? In the Spanish language check out ¿Quién es el Rey del Norte? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27 This prophecy could give up to 3 1/2 years advance notice of the coming Great Tribulation. Will most ignore or misunderstand its fulfillment? Here is a link to a related sermon video Daniel 9:27 and the Start of the Great Tribulation.
Wars, rumors of wars, and the Apocalypse Jesus foretold a time before the end where there would be wars and rumors of wars. The Apocalypse (the Book of Revelation) warns of the red horseman of war. Now, even secular writers, like Larry Edelson, are worried that wars and rumors of war are the most menacing problem that now haunts the earth? Are they right? What is the solution? This is a sermonette-length video.
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 200 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Hillary Clinton and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also discusses Republicans. The physical book can be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States, 2nd edition: Is Hillary Clinton Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Hopi, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Donald Trump? $11.99.
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition This electronic version of the 200 page print edition is available for only US$3.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

The Christian Day of Atonement is coming up soon. It begins at sunset October 11th and lasts until sunset October 12th, 2016.

In the original Hebrew, the Bible calls the day Yom Hakippurim (which is Hebrew for “Day of the Atonements”).

The original rites and practices for the Day of Atonement are set forth in the sixteenth chapter of Leviticus (cf. Exodus 30:10; Leviticus 23:27-31, 25:9; Numbers 29:7-11). It is considered to be a time for fasting, on which no food or drink are be consumed:

26 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: “Also the tenth day of this seventh month shall be the Day of Atonement. 27 It shall be a holy convocation for you; you shall afflict your souls…32 It shall be to you a sabbath of solemn rest, and you shall afflict your souls; on the ninth day of the month at evening, from evening to evening, you shall celebrate your sabbath (Leviticus 23:26-27,32).

This fasting is historically how the phrase “afflict your souls” has been interpreted by the Jewish community (this is also verified by such passages as Psalm 35:13; 69:10 and Isaiah 58:5) to mean fasting, unless one is somehow ill, and thus is already afflicted. Evening to evening means from sunset to sunset.

In the New Testament, the Day of Atonement is referred to as “the Fast” (Acts 27:9). The fact that this day was referred to that way (or even at all) is an indication that it was observed by Christians after Christ’s resurrection. The Bible clearly shows that so-called Jewish holy days, such as Pentecost were observed by Christians after Jesus’ resurrection (Acts 2:1).

A unique ceremony related to the Day of Atonement is discussed in Leviticus 16:

8 And Aaron shall cast lots upon the two goats; one lot for Jehovah, and the other lot for Azazel. 9 And Aaron shall present the goat upon which the lot fell for Jehovah, and offer him for a sin-offering. 10 But the goat, on which the lot fell for Azazel, shall be set alive before Jehovah, to make atonement for him, to send him away for Azazel into the wilderness. (Leviticus 16:8-10, ASV)

8 ‘And Aaron hath given lots over the two goats, one lot for Jehovah, and one lot for a goat of departure; 9 and Aaron hath brought near the goat on which the lot for Jehovah hath gone up, and hath made it a sin-offering. 10 ‘And the goat on which the lot for a goat of departure hath gone up is caused to stand living before Jehovah to make atonement by it, to send it away for a goat of departure into the wilderness. (Leviticus 16:8-10, YLT)

Christians note the parallels between the first of the two goats with Jesus and the second of the two goats with Satan (the Azazel goat).

Such as Jesus does get killed, but that Satan does not.

The slain goat represents Christ who actually dies for our sins. Notice Leviticus 16:15-19:

15 Then he shall kill the goat of the sin offering, which is for the people, bring its blood inside the veil, do with that blood as he did with the blood of the bull, and sprinkle it on the mercy seat and before the mercy seat. 16 So he shall make atonement for the Holy Place, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions, for all their sins; and so he shall do for the tabernacle of meeting which remains among them in the midst of their uncleanness. 17 There shall be no man in the tabernacle of meeting when he goes in to make atonement in the Holy Place, until he comes out, that he may make atonement for himself, for his household, and for all the assembly of Israel. 18 And he shall go out to the altar that is before the LORD, and make atonement for it, and shall take some of the blood of the bull and some of the blood of the goat, and put it on the horns of the altar all around. 19 Then he shall sprinkle some of the blood on it with his finger seven times, cleanse it, and consecrate it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel.

Christ’s sacrifice is an atonement sacrifice to reconcile us to God. Notice what the Apostle Paul wrote:

18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

The late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote:

Now the goat which God selected through lot, to represent Christ was slain, as Christ, its antitype was slain. But the other goat selected by God to represent Azazel was not slain, but was driven, alive, into an uninhabited wilderness. It was not a resurrected goat, symbolizing the resurrected Christ, for it never died. The uninhabited wilderness, to which this goat was driven, cannot, as we shall show, represent heaven, where Christ went. Heaven is neither uninhabited, nor a wilderness.

After God designated which goat represented Christ and which Azazel, the high priest (verse 11) killed the bullock for a sin offering for himself, then took the burning coals of fire and the sweet incense into the Holy of Holies, also sprinkling the blood of the bullock before the mercy seat, typical of the throne of God, covering the tables of testimony (the law). This the high priest was required to do in order to purify himself to officiate, and to represent Christ as High Priest. In the antitype, this was not done, for Christ, our High Priest, had no need of this purification as the typical substitutionary priests did.

Now the Levitical high priest was ready to go out and officiate.

Next, the goat which God selected by lot to represent Christ, as the sin offering of the people, was killed. Thus the sins of the people were borne by the goat, even as Christ, finally, once for all, bore our sins on the cross. But Christ rose again from the dead, and ascended to the throne of God in heaven.

Now, who, or what, from this point on in the Levitical ceremony, typified the resurrected Christ, who went to heaven? Some say the goat representing Azazel. Let us see.

The risen Christ, now at the right hand of the throne of God in heaven (I Peter 3:22), is called what? Our High Priest! What was the earthly type of God’s throne? The uninhabited wilderness? No! That is where the live goat went!

The earthly type of God’s throne was the mercy seat in the Holy of Holies. After Christ died, He went to the heavenly mercy seat interceding for us, as our High Priest. “. . . Entereth into that within the veil; whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec” (Hebrews 6:19-20).

Now, again, who, or what, in the Levitical ceremony of the Day of Atonement, typified the risen Christ, our High Priest, who went within the veil to God’s throne in heaven? The one goat had been slain. It represented the slain Christ. It can no longer represent the risen Christ. The slain Christ was not our High Priest, because the Levitical priesthood, with its high priest, did not end until Christ rose from the dead and ascended to heaven as a High Priest after the order of Melchisedec. But the risen Christ was High Priest. Now WHO took this part in the Levitical ceremonies, temporarily re-enacted year by year, on this eternal Holy Day? Why, so obviously a child could see, it was the Levitical high priest, not the goat representing Azazel!

The High Priest Type of Christ

As soon as the slain goat was dead, who went within the veil, presenting the blood of this goat before the typical throne of God?

Leviticus 16:15-16 “Then shall he [the high priest] kill the goat of the sin offering, that is for the people, and [now the high priest himself typifying the work of the risen Christ] bring his blood within the veil . . . and sprinkle it upon the mercy seat: and he shall make an atonement for the holy place. . . .”

And so it was the high priest taking blood within the veil, to the mercy seat, that typified the risen Christ figuratively taking HIS blood, once for all, within the veil to the very throne of God in heaven, there to intercede for us as High Priest. Surely this is so plain a child can see.

The slain goat represented the crucified Jesus. The high priest, by taking the blood of this slain goat into the veil to the mercy seat in the Holy of Holies, a type of God’s throne, represented and did the work of the risen Christ, who ascended to the right hand of the Majesty on high, there interceding as our High Priest. (Pagan Holidays or God’s Holy Days Which?)

The Holy Days of the Hebrew scriptures have applicability now and all help point to Jesus Christ.

People attempting to be faithful to the Bible have observed the Day of Atonement and we faithful in the Continuing Church of God continue to do so in the 21st century.

Those who have more interest may wish to study the following:

The Day of Atonement–Its Christian Significance The Jews call it Yom Kippur, Christians “The Day of Atonement.” Does it have any relevance for Christians today? What is the Jubilee? Is fasting healthy? Here is a link to a sermon: Day of Atonement: How Jesus fulfilled His part for the Atonement. Here is a link to a related article in the Spanish language: El Día de Expiación –Su significado cristiano.
Atonement Offertory Should an offering be taken up on the Day of Atonement? What does the Bible seem to teach about that? Was Jesus a type of atonement offering? If you send an offering, how does that support the work? Does God need your money or do you need to give? Dr. Thiel goes over scriptures and facts related to this. Here is a link to the donation page of the Continuing Church of God, which includes the ability to use PayPal: http://www.ccog.org/donations/
Michael’s Feasts and Fasts Quiz 15 questions, amusing wrong answer screens.
Michael’s Day of Atonement Quiz Another free on-line Bible quiz by my son Michael.
Michael’s Feasts and Fasts Quiz 15 questions, amusing wrong answer screens.
Should You Observe God’s Holy Days or Demonic Holidays? This is a free pdf booklet explaining what the Bible and history shows about God’s Holy Days and popular holidays.
Importance of Fasting An old article by Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject. Here is a link to it in Mandarin Chinese 禁食的重要性.
Did Early Christians Observe the Fall Holy Days? The ‘Fall’ Holy Days come every year in September and/or October on the Roman calendar. Some call them Jewish holidays, but they were kept by Jesus, the apostles, and their early faithful followers. Should you keep them? What does the Bible teach? What do records of church history teach? What does the Bible teach about the Feasts of Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles, and the Last Great Day? Here is a link to a related sermon: Should you keep the Fall Holy Days?
The Book of Life and the Feast of Trumpets? Are they related? Is so how? If not, where not? What does the Feast of Trumpets, which the Jews call Rosh Hashanah, help teach? A related sermon video would be Feast of Trumpets and the Book of Life as well as The Trumpet Release. The article has links to hear shofar blasts.
Feast of Trumpets: Why Should You Keep It? What does the Bible say? What does this festival picture?
Jesus: The Son of God and Saviour Who was Jesus? Why did He come to earth? What message did He bring? Is there evidence outside the Bible that He existed? Here is a YouTube sermon titled Jesus: Son of God and Saviour.
The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians? What is the Last Great Day? What do these days teach? A related sermon video is Feast of Tabernacles from Israel.
Feast of Tabernacles’ Sites for 2015 This is information on the planned Feast of Tabernacles’ sites for the Continuing Church of God in 2015. The Feast in 2015 begins the evening of September 27th.
Holy Day Calendar This is a listing of the biblical holy days through 2024, with their Roman calendar dates. They are really hard to observe if you do not know when they occur 🙂 In the Spanish/Español/Castellano language: Calendario de los Días Santos. In Mandarin Chinese: 何日是神的圣日？ 这里是一份神的圣日日历从2013年至2024年。.

European Air Transport Command headquarters

COGwriter

The German news source Deutsche Welle (DW) reported the following:

27 September 2016

UK ‘will oppose any idea of EU army’ despite impending Brexit

British Defense Minister Michael Fallon has vowed to veto all EU plans for increased military cooperation that could interfere with NATO. The UK is due to begin its departure from the EU within a matter of months.

Speaking at a meeting in the Slovakian capital Bratislava on Tuesday, UK Defense Minister Michael Fallon told his 27 counterparts that the UK would “continue to oppose any idea of an EU army or an EU army headquarters which would simply undermine NATO.”

Fallon’s comments followed a meeting earlier in September in which EU leaders met without the UK for the first time since the EU referendum. Europe was left stunned on June 23 when 52 percent of the UK voted in favor of leaving the EU.

The first post-Brexit vote summit saw the EU leaders agree on a six-month roadmap to create a new “vision” for the EU. Included in the plan was an increase in joint military efforts between the block – something which the UK has repeatedly opposed.

‘Underminig NATO’

Asked on Tuesday whether the UK could veto the plans while it still remains a member of the EU, Fallon said: “There is no majority here for a EU army.”

The idea that there will NOT be a European army is wishful thinking on the part of UK Defense Minister Michael Fallo.

Consider also that the photo at the beginning of this post is of a European air command headquarters that is supposed to be completed this year. And the air command is only one part of what Europe’s military will end up with.

The Bible clearly shows that the Europeans will not only have a military, but that they will possess a great army:

25 He shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the South with a great army. (Daniel 11:25)

The “He” above is the European King of the North.

Now could UK Defense Minister Michael Fallo be correct that there are many in Europe that do not currently support the idea?

Certainly.

But the Bible says that Europe will not be as unified as many want, so having different views will not stop that army from forming.

Notice the disunity of Europe in the following Bible prophecy:

41 Whereas you saw the feet and toes, partly of potter’s clay and partly of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; yet the strength of the iron shall be in it, just as you saw the iron mixed with ceramic clay. 42 And as the toes of the feet were partly of iron and partly of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong and partly fragile. 43 As you saw iron mixed with ceramic clay, they will mingle with the seed of men; but they will not adhere to one another, just as iron does not mix with clay. (Daniel 2:41-43)

As I have mentioned before, the Bible shows that it will have at least three major changes in Revelation 17 (two of which are discussed in more depth in the article Must the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations?):

12 “The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast. 13 These are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast. (Revelation 17:12-13)

The above will result in a temporarily united European power.

A power that will have military (Revelation 13:4; Daniel 11:39-43) and economic influence (Revelation 18).

3 And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast. 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?” (Revelation 13:3-4)

39 Thus he shall act against the strongest fortresses with a foreign god, which he shall acknowledge, and advance its glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and divide the land for gain. (Daniel 11:39)

In the 21st century, it is the USA that possesses the ‘strongest fortresses’ (see also USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses). The success of the European Beast, King of the North, power will cause the world to marvel.

Europe will arise. After the Brexit vote (the vote in the UK to leave the European Union; watch also Forbes’ Brexit Monster is the Beast of Revelation and/or  Post Brexit Prophecy), some in Europe are now starting to tell the world publicly that it intends to do so militarily. The world will be surprised this will happen, which is part of why I believe European technology will be a key factor in this (as will be deception and problems in the USA).

Currently Europe relies on the USA, as the real military partner of NATO, to defend it. This has been convenient for Europe and has allowed the Europeans to enjoy a standard of living that may not have been otherwise possible. However, Europe is developing its own military technology (see European Technology and the Beast of Revelation) and the time will come when it concludes it not only does not need the USA, but that it wants to take it over.

I do not, at this time, believe that Europe will abandon NATO. But that Europe wants the ability to have significant military capabilities outside of NATO, which NATO countries like the USA have.

I suspect that after the Europeans and the USA have some strained relations in the future, the Europeans may call for/agree to a joint military exercise, possibly under the conditions of NATO, in the USA. This would allow the Europeans to bring military aircraft, troops, and other military items to the USA, without the USA getting concerned it would soon be attacked.

As far as the UK goes, it is losing its voice of influence within Europe.

The UK will ultimately be defeated by a power from Europe, as will the USA (cf. Daniel 8:25; 11:39; Isaiah 10:5-12; Jeremiah 30:7; Psalm 83:3-8).

The United Kingdom is trying to use rhetoric to oppose Europe’s army, but that will not stop it from forming.  A great European army will be formed per Daniel 11:25.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
European Technology and the Beast of Revelation Will the coming European Beast power would use and develop technology that will result in the taking over of the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies? Is this possible? What does the Bible teach? Here is a related YouTube video: Military Technology and the Beast of Revelation.
Must the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations? Some claim that these passages refer to a gathering of 10 currently existing nations together, while one group teaches that this is referring to 11 nations getting together. Is that what Revelation 17:12-13 refers to? The ramifications of misunderstanding this are enormous. A related sermon is titled Ten Kings of Revelation and the Great Tribulation.
Should a Christian Vote? This article gives some of the Biblical rationale on this subject. Would Jesus vote for president/prime minister? Is voting in the Bible? This is a subject Christians need to understand. A video of related interest is available titled: Should Christians Vote? Another video is 10 Reasons Not to Vote for Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton.
World War III: Steps in Progress Are there surprising actions going on now that are leading to WWIII? Might a nuclear attack be expected? Does the Bible promise protection to all or only some Christians? How can you be part of those that will be protected? A related video would be Is World War III About to Begin? Can You Escape?
WTO/TTIP and the Babylonian Beast Will international trade agreements like WTO/TTIP/CETA lead to the fulfillment of end time prophecies concerning the Babylonian Beast power that the Book of Revelation warns against? What does the Bible teach? A related video would be WTO Trade Deal and the Rise of the European Beast Power.
Wars, rumors of wars, and the Apocalypse Jesus foretold a time before the end where there would be wars and rumors of wars. The Apocalypse (the Book of Revelation) warns of the red horseman of war. Now, even secular writers, like Larry Edelson, are worried that wars and rumors of war are the most menacing problem that now haunts the earth? Are they right? What is the solution? This is a sermonette-length video.
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? In the Spanish language check out ¿Quién es el Rey del Norte? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses Can you point to scriptures, like Daniel 11:39, that point to the USA in the 21st century? This article does.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Will the Anglo-Saxon Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
British are the Covenant People What do ‘British’ and ‘Britain’ mean in Hebrew? Are the descendants of the Anglo-Saxons people of the covenant? Does the British royal family connect to the throne of David? What does the Bible teach? What does history show us? Is there any DNA evidence related to British-Israelism? When did Christianity make it to the British Isles? Could Jeremiah have made it to the British Isles? What type of Christians made it to the British Isles? Did the last King of England believe in British Israelism?
Forbes’ Brexit Monster is the Beast of Revelation Various ones have been properly convinced that there is a plan for a European superstate. Forbes’ writer Tom Worstall wrote that the Brexit vote was about the United Kingdom “not joining the monster of the European Union to come.” The Bible tells of a Beast monster that will arise in the end times in Europe. Dr. Thiel cites news reports, as well as the Old and New Testaments, to show that the monster many fear will arise in Europe, despite the vote by the British to exit the European Union.
Post Brexit Prophecy On June 23, 2016, the voters of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK) chose to leave the European Union. Now with this BRitish EXIT (Brexit) vote, what is prophesied to happen to the UK? Will the UK do well or be taken over and made slaves? Dr. Thiel explains from biblical prophecies what is ahead for the UK, Europe, and even the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This is a video.
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 200 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Hillary Clinton and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also discusses Republicans. The physical book can be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States, 2nd edition: Is Hillary Clinton Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Hopi, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Donald Trump? $11.99.
Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition This electronic version of the 200 page print edition is available for only US$3.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Hillary Clinton, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Amazon 2nd Kindle edition.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.